by The blue city, as Jodhpur is known, has a majestic crown on its head. Yes, you have guessed it correct. This is the Mehrangarh fort in Jodhpur. The jodhpur mehrangarh fort history is as prominent as its present.
The architecture is as unique as is the jodhpur mehrangarh fort history. Standing on a 410 feet high pinnacle, the fort stands strong even ages after it was built by the brave Rajput.
Jodhpur Mehrangarh Fort History
The Jodhpur Mehrangarh fort history is as impressive as the fort is. Literally meaning “fort of sun”, the Mehrangarh fort was built in the 15th century by Rao Jodha. This fort was set up in the newly founded Jodhpur city at that time.
Interestingly, the fort is still controlled by Royal family of Jodhpur unlike other forts which have been taken over by Archaeological Survey of India. The remarkable architecture, open courtyards, widely acclaimed museums all add to the glory of jodhpur mehrangarh fort history and make it truly impressive.
As per historic facts, Rathore clan has its origin in Kannauj. With invasion of Muhammad Ghori, the peace in North India was disturbed to a large extent. The Rathore rulers migrated towards West India.
Over the centuries, this trend continued until the 15th ruler, Rao Jodha shifted 9 Km south of Mandore. Gunpowder and cannon had been discovered by this time and this led Rao Jodha to chose a site that was a rocky portion of a hillock for the fort. This was essentially done with the consideration of having dominance over the region. Later, the city of Jodhpur was set up at the base of Mehrangarh fort.
Legend with Mehrangarh Fort
Jodhpur mehrangarh fort history has a legend associated with it. A hermit lived on the barren mountain on which the fort was to be built. The hill was named as Bhakurcheeria and the hermit was Chheria Nathji.
The king tried to move the hermit by force and he gave the curse that the hillock will be deficit of water. A human sacrifice was done at the place to please the gods and local king Ram Meghwal was buried alive in the foundations of fort. However, that also did not suffice the curse and the region still suffers from water shortage every three to four years.
Courtesy: Image by Anshul Tilondiya from Pixabay
Mehrangarh Fort Architecture
As the jodhpur mehrangarh fort history spreads across 500 years, it is but natural for the architecture to be a collage of different eras. While some regions of Mehrangarh fort have a Rajput influence, at other places, you will find a distinct impression of Mughal style.
It is pertinent to mention here that there are seven gates in Mehrangarh fort that lead to its numerous courtyards. Another fact related to this fort is that red sandstone has not been used exclusively in construction here but marble has been used here exclusively. The artistic doors and windows will definitely leave you inspired. The lattice screen has been used exclusively in the fort and the same helped royal women to get a peep into the outside world without people knowing about them.
Mehrangarh Fort Distance
Mehrangarh fort distance is six kilometres from Jodhpur junction.
Mehrangarh Fort Timings
Mehrangarh fort timings are 9:00 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee for Indians is Rs 70 while it is Rs 600 for foreigners. You will have to shell out Rs 100 for use of camera and elevator use will cost you Rs 40.
Mehrangarh Fort Attractions
The Jodhpur Mehrangarh fort history has mention of seven gates and each one is special. Some of these are victory signs and others added to protection of the fort.
Jai Pol Gate
The entrance to Mehrangarh Fort is impressive indeed. The chhatri of Kirat Singh Sodha has an impressive design which shall make you stop and ponder on the artistic skills of brave Rajputs. Kirat Singh Sodha was a soldier who braved the Jaipur army during siege of this fort and this chhatri was constructed in his memory.
A hook and pully system also exists at this gate which perhaps was used to transport material. The Jai pol gate was constructed as a victory memorial for win of Jodhpur army over Jaipur.
Depictions of Mewar school of art also make this gate truly impressive and anyone with interest in architecture can easily spend quality time here.
Gopal Pol Gate
The huge spiked gates of Gopal pol acted as a protection from elephants who attacked the gate during numerous battles fought over the years.
Dedh Kangra Pol
The first thing that you will observe while passing through Dedh Kangra pol are the circular depressions which have been made from cannon balls. These were made by army of Jaipur which attacked the fort but could not win it.
Maruti Pol
An arched entrance between Gopal pol and Dedh Kangra, Maruti Pol is one of the gates with no history!
Loha Pol
This climb is indeed steep but has a connection with jodhpur mehrangarh fort history. The sharp spikes on its gates well justifies why it is known as Loha pol. It is located on a sharp turn with the intention of slowing the progress of advancing army.
As you pass, you will see 16 handprints. These are the memories of women who left the fort to commit sati when the fort was attacked. Another small cubicle has 5 imprints of queens of Maharaja Ajit Singh.
Suraj Pol
This is the innermost gate of Mehrangarh fort. As you cross over, you will be in the main courtyard of Mehrangarh fort which is known by the name of Shringar Chowk.
A Popular Spot Indeed
Culture of Rajasthan is evidently visible in Mehrangarh fort as you will find musicians performing at every corner of the fort. Numerous movies and documentaries have also been filmed at this fort which has helped the world know more about this impeccable place, we all know as Mehrangarh Fort!
Featured : Image by pedronome from Pixabay
